What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinary Assistant - Per Diem position at Ethos Veterinary Health?
Per Diem Veterinary Technician – Veterinary Specialty Hospital, North County
At VSH - North County, our AAHA accredited hospital proudly serves the community by providing referral services in the specialties of cardiology, dermatology, diagnostic imaging, emergency & critical care, interventional radiology, surgery, oncology, surgical oncology, ophthalmology, neurology, internal medicine, as well as integrative medicine such as acupuncture.
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Per Diem Veterinary Assistant to join our 24/7 specialty hospital team. In this role, you will assist with animal care, from routine tasks to critical care support, working closely with veterinarians and technicians to provide exceptional service in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. This flexible position offers opportunities to support patient care during high-demand periods, including various shifts, weekends, and holidays, with potential growth in emergency and specialty services. If you're eager to learn, thrive in a clinical setting, and want flexibility, apply today!
Responsibilities
Patient Care & Handling
- Perform patient intake, including accurate weighing (in kilograms) and identification through ID bands, cage cards, and harnesses.
- Walk dogs and handle cats, ensuring their safety and comfort during movement and care.
- Obtain vital signs (TPRs: Temperature, Pulse, Respiration) and assess patient stability.
- Administer treatments, including oral medications, subcutaneous fluids, and fluid therapy.
- Support veterinarians and technicians during procedures, including IV fluid management, blood draws, and radiology.
- Operate and monitor veterinary equipment like EKGs, capnography, syringe pumps, and pulse oximeters, ensuring proper protocols and identification of normal ranges.
Treatment & Critical Care
- Prepare treatment sheets, assist with crash cart management, and respond to emergency situations, including CPR.
- Set up and manage IV fluids, monitor for alarms, and assist with catheter placement and removal.
- Follow protocols in isolation and restricted areas, using personal protective equipment (PPE) and managing oxygen cages, nebulization, and infection control procedures.
Laboratory & Diagnostic Support
- Conduct lab tests including CBCs, chemistries, and coagulation panels; ensure accurate results and follow safety protocols.
- Prepare and assist with radiology, ensuring correct positioning and safety measures.
Software & Recordkeeping
- Use veterinary software (e.g., EzyVet) to update patient records, treatment plans, and print cage cards.
- Accurately document patient care, including treatment details, medication administration, and daily logs.
Client Communication & Support
- Escort clients to exam rooms, gather patient information and communicate treatment plans and updates clearly and compassionately.
- Assist with client education, obtaining treatment consent, and managing special requests (e.g., paw prints or hair locks after euthanasia).
General Duties
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment, including disinfecting areas, managing waste disposal, and restocking supplies.
- Handle pharmacy-related tasks, including medication preparation, E-collar sizing, and lab form completion.
- Assist with patient aftercare, including handling of deceased animals and special memorial requests.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent; Veterinary Assistant certification preferred.
- At least 6 months of experience as a Veterinary Assistant or in a related role.
- Proficiency in basic veterinary care techniques, animal handling, and the ability to perform tasks independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
- Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and handle animals of varying sizes and temperaments.
Ethos Veterinary Health offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, Ethos provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.
